Tristan Grimsley Ready for Pro Debut Tonight at XKO 14

ARLINGTON, TX, February 18, 2012 – It’s almost time for fight night in Arlington as Xtreme Knockout 14 tees off from The Gym at 8PM this evening. We’ve talked to a bunch of guys on this card here in TXMMA including Ciprian Hagan, Jay Jay Sanchez, Chris Feist, Casey Hudson and more. Based on what they’re saying, it should be an exciting night of action for area fans and also one that should net out some prospects the entire state should look out for when all is said and done.

Speaking of prospects, we conclude our pre-fight coverage with this interview with Team Mohler/Team Reyes fighter Tristan Grimsley. He’s a 27 year old debuting pro that’s spent a lot of time honing his game with a decade of training experience and a 5-1 record on the amateur scene before making the leap to turn pro. Tonight he finally takes that next step against Nelson Salas, a fighter he’s had some history with in the past. The only difference here is that Nelson got to the pros first and is already touting a 2-0 record.

All in all, it should be a very interesting battle as these two go at again. We spoke to Tristan to get his thoughts headed into XKO 14 tonight.

XKO 14 Interview – Tristan Grimsley (Mohler MMA / Team Reyes)

Tristan, how did you get into training originally? Who are you training with now?

I had been doing BJJ for a few years and then I meet Will Campuzano. He pushed me to do MMA back in 2009. I train with Team Reyes and Team Mohler. Both teams are like big families and we all are a pretty tight group. We push each other to always get better and share in each other’s victories and triumphs. I get to train every day with the best teams in Texas!

What’s life like outside of the gym?

Outside the gym I am a father to the coolest 5 year old boy in the world. Being a dad is the most rewarding thing I have ever done.

How would you describe yourself as a fighter? What can the fans expect when they see you?

I’m well rounded so no one should be surprised to see me get the tap or the KO. I train for both. My tenacity is my greatest attribute. The last few weeks I push myself hard then focus on cutting weight so I’ll be ready on fight night.

You’ve had an awesome amateur career going 5-1 and you’ll be making your pro debut at XKO 14? How does it feel to make that next step?

It feels great I’m glad to be getting this opportunity at the start of this year. I’m looking forward to an active 2012.

What can you tell us about your opponent Nelson Salas?

Me and Nelson have some history. I fought him May last year as an amateur and got the tap. Then in August last year he knocked out my teammate… so there’s a bit of history there.

What are you aiming to do to get the win again this time around?

I’m coming out set the pace and go to work. That’s pretty much it.

Then afterwards, what’s next for you?

I hope to fight as much as possible this year and stay active. Outside of competition I hope to get back to school and make my mom proud!

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About Mike Calimbas

Mike Calimbas is a longtime supporter of the mixed martial arts community. Aside from his role as Editor-in-Chief at TXMMA.com, Mike often contributes to other publications globally as a writer, photographer, and analyst. For inquiries, feel free to contact him anytime.